Environmental Sustainability - Zero-emission Bus Progress

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Zero-Emission Bus Program

As part of its plan to convert the OC Bus fleet to 100 percent zero-emission technology by 2040, OCTA has invested in 10 plug-in battery-electric buses and an equal number of hydrogen fuel-cell electric buses. This pilot will help determine which technology - or mix of technologies - will help bring even cleaner air quality to Orange County.

OCTA will begin phasing in additional zero-emission buses as part of future bus purchases beginning in 2023. At the same time, staff will continue to analyze emerging technologies and work with partners to secure funding for purchase, operations and maintenance of the buses.

OCTA's Zero Emission Bus (ZEB) Program aligns with California's Innovative Clean Transit Rule, a first-of-its kind regulation in the U.S. that sets a goal for public transit agencies to gradually transition to 100 percent zero-emission bus fleets by 2040.

Learn more about OCTA's Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Bus
Learn more about OCTA's Battery-Electric Buses

OC Bus parked in front of a SmartFuel Hydrogen fueling station.

Environmental Benefits

OCTA leadership at bus fueling station. SmartFuel Hydrogen Technology signage.
OCTA's commitment has resulted in:
  • OCTA was the first large public transportation agency in Southern California to operate a hydrogen fuel-cell electric bus to help protect the environment.
  • Buses powered by fossil fuel buses emit air pollutants that produce smog and greenhouse gases. Hydrogen fuel-cell electric buses emit only water, which means cleaner air, less global warming, and healthier, quieter neighborhoods.
  • OCTA's hydrogen fueling station, the largest in the country, was funded in part by California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative that puts billions of cap-and-trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy and improving public health and the environment - particularly in disadvantaged communities.

Additional Resources

SmartFuel Hydrogen bus

OCTA Sets Course for Zero-Emission Bus Fleet by 2040

OCTA's approval of a draft plan to convert the OC Bus fleet to 100 percent zero-emission technology by 2040 will help bring cleaner air quality to Orange County.
SmartFuel Hydrogen bus fleet

OCTA Debuts Nation's Largest Hydrogen Fueling Station

On Jan. 31, OCTA joined local, state and federal officials in showcasing its continuing efforts to use zero-emission transportation technology for a balanced and sustainable transit future.

SmartFuel Hydrogen bus

Ten Zero-Emission Plug-In Buses to Join OCTA Pilot Program

OCTA is purchasing 10 plug-in battery-electric buses for a pilot program to test how the buses perform on Orange County streets.

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Orange County Transportation Authority
Address: 550 S. Main Street
Orange, CA 92868
Bus Information (714) 636-7433
91 Express Lanes (800) 600-9191
OCTA Administrative Office (714) 560-6282